The Plaza
Now managed by the Fairmont corporation, the iconic Plaza, located across from Central Park, was built in 1907 and retains its turn-of-the-century charm and atmosphere. The luxury hotel, which is on the National Register of Historic Places, was used as a residence by wealthy New Yorkers, including the Vanderbilts, when it was first built and since has played host to heads of state, ambassadors and celebrities.
The building has been featured in myriad films, including "North by Northwest," the "Great Gatsby," "Funny Girl" and the "Crocodile Dundee" movies. Conde Nast Traveler selected The Plaza for its Hot List (2008) and Travel & Leisure named the hotel to its It List (2008).
The Plaza
Central Park South and Fifth Avenue
New York, NY 10019
(212) 759-3000
http://fairmont.com/theplaza
The Waldorf-Astoria
Located right on Park Avenue within walking distance of Rockerfeller Center, the art deco Waldorf-Astoria opened with a speech from then president Herbert Hoover in 1931. The original hotel, built in 1893, was razed to make way for the Empire State Building. The new high-end property houses two of New York's most well-known entertainment venues and has hosted live shows. Featured in a "Weekend at the Waldorf" with Ginger Rogers, the hotel has been a location in films and has hosted celebrities, including Dinah Shore, John F. Kennedy, Winston Churchill and Diana Ross.
Waldorf-Astoria & Towers
100 E. 50th St.
New York, NY 10022
(212) 355-3100
http://waldorfnewyork.com
Gramercy Park Hotel
One of New York's grand old hotels, the five-star Gramercy Park Hotel is the "it" place for current celebrities, including Sienna Miller, Anne Hathaway, Ethan Hawke and Lance Armstrong. Recently renovated by Ian Schrager, who has been called the "inventor of the boutique hotel" by National Geographic Traveler, Gramercy Park is filled with vibrant colors, cutting-edge design and eclectic artwork. The hotel was originally built in 1925. Baseball legend Babe Ruth was a regular bar customer.
Gramercy Park Hotel
2 Lexington Ave.
New York, NY 10010
(866) 784-1300
http://gramercyparkhotel.com
